The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has intensified security measures nationwide as organizers of the October 1 protest remain determined to proceed with their demonstration on Independence Day.
Two months after the #EndBadGovernance protest, several groups have mobilized citizens for a new protest, coinciding with the 64th Independence Day anniversary. The protest, dubbed #FearlessOctober1, is a continuation of the previous #EndBadGovernance demonstration held in early August. Organizers argue that the government’s failure to address issues such as widespread hunger, rising living costs, insecurity, and the need for electoral reforms and human capital development, among others, has necessitated another protest.
The protest is planned to take place in two major locations: the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) at Eagle Square, where the Independence Day parade will be held, and in Lagos, at Ikeja Under Bridge. Human rights activist and protest leader, Omoyele Sowore, stated that they are “fully prepared” and ready to take to the streets from 7 a.m. on October 1.
Despite calls from the Federal Government for restraint, with Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, urging protesters to avoid violence and respect the country’s 64th Independence anniversary, the organizers insist that the protest will go ahead. They maintain that the issues raised during the August protests remain unresolved, and citizens have a constitutional right to demonstrate.
In response to the planned protest, the police have ramped up security in flashpoints across the country. In states such as Niger, Kano, Kaduna, Lagos, and others, police commands have deployed additional personnel and resources to prevent disruptions. Key areas like markets, road junctions, and public spaces are under increased surveillance, with police patrols actively monitoring for any signs of unrest.
Meanwhile, political tensions are rising between the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and opposition parties. The APC has warned against allowing protests to spiral into chaos, accusing opposition parties of using the unrest to destabilize the country. The opposition, however, denies these allegations, asserting that the masses are protesting of their own volition due to the hardships caused by President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms.
Both the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party argue that the protests are driven by the public’s frustration with the rising cost of living, fuel price hikes, and other economic challenges. They emphasize that the discontent is not orchestrated by political opposition but reflects the genuine grievances of the Nigerian people.
As the October 1 protest approaches, security remains on high alert, with authorities urging peaceful demonstrations while ensuring public safety throughout the Independence Day celebrations.
